Leadership Spotlight: Robin Schneider
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Director search for Bonn International School in Bonn, Germany. Congratulations to Robin Schneider for accepting the position, beginning August 2025! Robin currently serves as the Head of School at Fukuoka International School in Japan.
Robin holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University. His extensive career in international education includes roles in Japan (Tokyo & Fukuoka), Korea (Seoul & Busan), and Finland (Helsinki).
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
I was inspired to pursue education because of the profound impact my own teachers had on my life. Their ability to foster curiosity, resilience, and a love for learning showed me the transformative power of education. I wanted to be part of that journey for others, helping young minds grow and discover their potential.
International education, specifically, drew me in because of its unique ability to connect diverse cultures and perspectives. It’s a space where students and educators alike are constantly learning from one another, building global awareness and empathy. The idea of preparing students to navigate and contribute to an interconnected world felt not just inspiring but essential. The diversity, adaptability, and inclusivity inherent in international education make it a dynamic and rewarding field to be part of.
Please share a bit about your most recent leadership experience at Fukuoka International School.
Over the past eight years, Fukuoka International School (FIS) has experienced remarkable growth, transforming into a vibrant hub of innovation and inclusivity. Guided by our principles of INCLUDE, EMPOWER, IMPACT, we have expanded our programs, embraced cutting-edge teaching practices, and deepened our commitment to providing a world-class international education. Our student body has flourished, becoming more diverse and globally-minded, while our faculty has grown into a dedicated team of educators committed to fostering excellence. We’ve enhanced our facilities, including modernized classrooms and collaborative learning spaces, to meet the needs of our dynamic community.
FIS has strengthened its role within Fukuoka, forging meaningful partnerships with local and international organizations. These connections have empowered our students to engage in real-world issues, sustainability efforts, and cultural exchanges.
Bonn International School (BIS)
Congratulations on your upcoming role at Bonn International School (BIS)! What are you excited about in this new role?
The opportunity to take on the role of Director at Bonn International School excites me deeply because of the school’s strong reputation for academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. BIS’s commitment to fostering a globally-minded community aligns perfectly with my own philosophy of education. I’m inspired by the chance to collaborate with a diverse group of educators, students, and parents to further the school’s mission and shape its future.
My hopes for this role are rooted in building on the school’s successes while leading it into its next chapter. I aspire to cultivate a culture of belonging where every individual feels valued and empowered to excel. I look forward to enhancing sustainability initiatives, deepening academic programs, and fostering partnerships that enrich the learning experience. My vision is to ensure that BIS not only prepares students for an interconnected world but also equips them to make meaningful contributions to it,
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the BIS community expect?
Education has always held a special place in my heart, inspired by the profound impact of my own teachers who nurtured curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love for learning. Witnessing their ability to transform lives motivated me to pursue a career where I could guide others on a similar journey of growth and discovery.
International education, in particular, captivates me because of its power to connect diverse cultures and perspectives. It creates an environment where students and educators alike engage in meaningful exchanges, fostering global awareness and empathy. This unique setting equips learners to navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world, which I find both inspiring and essential.
The diversity, adaptability, and inclusivity of international education make it a dynamic and fulfilling field. It’s a privilege to help shape global citizens who embrace challenges, value differences, and aspire to make a meaningful impact.
BIS campus
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
My experience with ISS Leadership Search was exceptional. The team was professional, supportive, and communicative throughout the entire process, ensuring I felt well-prepared and informed every step of the way.
Congratulations again to Robin on this exciting appointment. Robin’s leadership experience has highlighted innovation, inclusivity, and community growth, and we wish him and the BIS community all success in this new chapter ahead! You can connect with Robin on LinkedIn.
If you’re interested in pursuing a school leadership position, please check out our current leadership searches or get in touch with the ISS Leadership Search Team.